One of the best iPad Pro features may soon be heading to the iPhone.
All three new iPhones in 2017 will get True Tone displays, according to the latest research note from analysts at Barclays that predict Apple will add a “full spectral sensing” ambient light sensor on each device.
In their note, Barclay analysts Andrew Gardiner, Hiral Patel, Joseph Wolf, Blayne Curtis, and Mark Moskowitz claim the ambient sensors will be supplied by Austrian semiconductor manufacturer AMS. While neither of the analysts have a perfect track record at predicting iPhone features, the inclusion of TrueTone displays seems like a natural progression for Apple’s smartphones.
The Great iPhone 8
“For the expected iPhone 7S models, as well as the iPhone 8, we think AMS’s content increases due to the inclusion of its full spectral sensing ambient light sensor, as already seen in the iPad Pro for that device’s True Color screen functionality,” the analysts write. “We estimate this to be a material step-up in content from the $0.60 range to $1.00.”
Apple first introduced True Tone displays with the 9.7-inch iPad Pro screen. True Tone displays use ambient light sensors to calculate the perfect colors to project in every setting. Even though the iPad Pro’s display was rated as practically perfect, the feature has not yet been adopted by other iPads or iPhones.
The research note also sheds light on how Apple might bring 3D sensing capabilities to the iPhone. Barclays claims Apple will use “two structured light cameras, on each on the front and back.” Previous rumors assumed Apple would use a structured light camera on the front and a depth mapping sensor on the back. However, the analysts think Apple will use two custom modules to perform augmented reality and facial recognition tasks.
Other rumored features for the iPhone 8 includes a new all-glass body, wireless charging, better cameras, Touch ID embedded into the display and more. All three new iPhones are expected to be announced at an event this fall.
